judo

American  

[joo-doh] / ˈdʒu doʊ /

noun

1. a method of defending oneself or fighting without the use of weapons, based on jujitsu but differing from it in banning dangerous throws and blows and stressing the athletic or sport element.

2. the sport of fighting by this method.

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adjective

1. of or relating to this fighting method or sport.

judo British  

/ ˈdʒuːdəʊ /

noun

1. 1. the modern sport derived from jujitsu, in which the object is to throw, hold to the ground, or otherwise force an opponent to submit, using the minimum of physical effort

   2. ( as modifier )

      a judo throw

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Usage

What is judo? Judo is a martial art and unarmed self-defense system focused on throwing or pinning with a minimum amount of physical effort. It is based on jujitsu. Judo is also a sport and an event in the Summer Olympic Games. In the sport of judo, the object is to score points by throwing or pinning one’s opponent. Names of points awarded for different kinds of throws or holds include yuko and waza-ari. A point known as an ippon is awarded to a competitor who displays perfect technique and results in an automatic victory in the match. A minor penalty is called a shido. A major penalty is known as a hansoku-make and results in disqualification. Many of the throwing techniques used in judo have been adopted in other sparring sports, including in mixed martial arts. A person who practices or competes in judo can be called a judoka. Example: I practice judo, but not competitively—just for self defense and exercise.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• judoist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of judo

1885–90; < Japanese jūdō < Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese róu soft + dào way

Explanation

Judo is a Japanese martial art. Practicing judo is sometimes dance-like and meditative, but it can also be competitive, with opponents attempting to throw each other to the ground. Like most other modern martial arts, judo is an unarmed fighting technique that requires both a well-trained body and mind. It was created in the 1880s by a Japanese athlete and teacher who was strongly influenced by jujitsu. Today, millions of people practice judo, some of them competing annually in tournaments. You can tell how experienced someone is by the color of their belt, ranging from white (beginner) to black.

Example Sentences

Proof of concept: he's a black belt in judo and jiujitsu -- and also working on a PhD.

From Barron's • Jun. 12, 2026

It was through this she discovered jiu-jitsu, finding similarities to judo but with less restrictions.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

Rousey won a bronze medal in judo at the 2008 Beijing Olympics before becoming an MMA superstar.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 17, 2026

Despite decades of unrest, Manipur has built a reputation as one of India's most consistent producers of elite athletes - such as Olympic weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, boxer Mary Kom and judo champion Sushila Devi Likmabam.

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

“This is one of my students,” Mr. Reilly explains, over the thunk of the little girl doing judo kicks.

From "Landscape with Invisible Hand" by M.T. Anderson

Related Words

• karate
• wrestling